Australia Inks Important Security Pact with the Papua New Guinean government

The Australian nation will gain access to PNG's armed forces bases and troops under a freshly signed deal that will ensure each government come to each other's defence if one faces aggression.

This agreement will allow up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve in the Australian Defence Force. They will also have the option to obtain Australian citizenship.

Agreement Specifics

Known as the Pukpuk Pact (meaning "this reptile" in local dialect), the bilateral agreement is the most recent in a series of agreements struck between countries in the Pacific and countries vying for a defence footprint in the region.

The treaty possesses significant force and, similar to the crocodile, its impact highlights the interoperability and readiness of the defence units for conflict.

A military assault on either country would be “a risk to mutual safety” so each must “act to meet the common danger”.

Deeper Partnership

This agreement also included enhanced cooperation around cyberspace and electromagnetic warfare.

Previously, the defence official from Papua New Guinea noted that the agreement would mean that defence personnel from each country would be “completely unified”.

• Initially, to limit foreign presence in PNG by guaranteeing it does not have the equivalent entry to infrastructure.
• Second, to address the nation's recent struggles enlisting new personnel.
• Finally, the deal also demonstrates a stance to other global powers.

The positive outcomes of the agreement were comprising several aspects, per analysis from a Pacific affairs specialist.

“Papua New Guinea possesses numerous capable nationals eager for these opportunities,” the expert noted, noting that numerous individuals would be drawn to the prospects of residing in the country and perhaps securing permanent status.

Area Impact

The deal is a component of a described as core-and-periphery system of security agreements in the region – with Australia at the core and regional countries being the spokes.

There are concerns that the agreement undermines the nation's inclusive and neutral international approach by associating the country with its partner on all security matters.

The two nations need enhanced definition on the anticipated outcomes, duties and commitments.

This agreement also included regular collaborative training which were about “strategic messaging,” to “demonstrate combined operational readiness and rapid response to regional dangers”.

The agreement would help update the nation's military, bringing a significant boost in both material and morale.